Instrumentation and Data Acquisition System for an Air-Sea Interaction Buoy

Abstract

Instrumentation and data acquisition system for a typical air-sea interaction experiment are described. The experiments were conducted with the help of a stable air-sea interaction buoy anchored 5 km offshore in the Atlantic Ocean near Long Island. Errors due to the tilting motions of the buoy are discussed. The instruments were designed to survive the hostile marine environment and maintain their calibration and relatively high frequency response. A line-of-sight RF telemetry system was used to obtain data at a fast rate. Unique power supply features such as a wind charger and a solar panel were used to extend the life of the batteries. Future plans regarding data transmission through geostationary satellites are presented.